Seasonal flu has begun to take hold in several regions of the French metropolis, as shown this Wednesday, November 26, by a report from the public health agency.Even if the epidemic is currently only fully declared overseas in mayotte.

With the drop in temperatures, the flu has made a comeback among the French population | AFP

Flu is Gently Establishing Itself in France as Winter Approaches, According to Santé Publique France

With the drop in temperatures, the flu is making a comeback among the French population. According to the latest data from santé Publique France, the virus is circulating slowly but surely across the Hexagon.

While not yet at epidemic levels, the indicators observed in recent weeks suggest a gradual increase in influenza activity. Several factors contribute to this resurgence, including the cooling weather, increased indoor gatherings, and perhaps lower immunity levels after a period of relatively mild flu seasons.

Santé Publique france is closely monitoring the situation and recommends that individuals at risk – including the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and people with chronic illnesses – get vaccinated against the flu. Preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and wearing a mask in crowded places are also advised to limit the spread of the virus.

The health agency urges the public to remain vigilant and consult a doctor if they experience flu-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat, and muscle aches. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications and reduce the burden on the healthcare system during the winter months.

As winter approaches, the flu is settling gently in France, according to Santé Publique France

The first signals are appearing. While still at a low level, flu activity is increasing in France, according to the latest epidemiological bulletin from Santé Publique France published on November 23.

For the week of November 20 to 26, the proportion of visits to emergency rooms for flu-like illness continued to rise, reaching 1.8% of all visits, compared to 1.2% the previous week. This increase is observed in all age groups, but especially among children under 15.

A slow start, but a rise is expected

This year, the flu season seems to be starting later than usual. “We are currently in a pre-epidemic phase,” explains santé Publique France. The circulation of influenza viruses remains low, but the increase in consultations suggests that the virus is beginning to spread.

The health agency anticipates a gradual increase in flu activity in the coming weeks, coinciding with the colder weather and increased indoor gatherings.

Vaccination remains the best protection

Faced with this situation, Santé Publique France recalls the importance of vaccination, particularly for people at risk: those over 65, people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and young children. Vaccination is recommended until the end of December.

Preventive measures

In addition to vaccination, several preventive measures can help limit the spread of the flu:

* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use a hand sanitizer.
* Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing,preferably with a disposable tissue.
* Avoid close contact with sick people.
* Air out rooms regularly.

Current Situation of the Epidemic

The epidemic is, for the time being…